The thrill of finding a future champion begins in the lush pastures of New Zealand, where world-class thoroughbreds are bred, raised, and prepared for racing glory.

This November, The Hong Kong Jockey Club invites Members to experience the excitement firsthand during an exclusive tour to New Zealand Bloodstock’s renowned Ready to Run Sale at Karaka. More than just an auction tour, the tour blends the thrill of bloodstock discovery with the finest hospitality, offering a true insider’s perspective on what makes New Zealand a powerhouse of racing talent. With Auckland as home base, the tour will also be your prime opportunity to immerse in New Zealand’s famed sweeping landscapes, and to explore the renowned cultural and natural landmarks that Auckland has to offer.

Caption: New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready to Run Sale takes place every November in Auckland, with last year’s edition seeing a record breaking sale of the I Am Invincible colt for NZ$1.65 million (HK$7.83 million)

Ready to Run Sale

The spotlight of the tour will be to witness New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready to Run Sale in Karaka. Located just under half an hour’s drive from Auckland, the sale has earned its reputation as the premier breeze up auction for two-year-olds, producing an extraordinary roster of champions. The 2024 sale saw records rise 11 percent, with NZ$39 million (HK$185 million) in turnover and a remarkable 80 percent clearance rate, proving the intense global demand for these expertly prepared young racehorses. Among its graduates are Hong Kong’s brightest stars, Golden Sixty (金鎗六十) and Lucky Sweynesse (金鑽貴人), alongside recent Group 1 winners like Antino (好天朗) and Mr Brightside (樂觀派). For those looking to secure the next big talent for Hong Kong racing, this sale will be where dreams take shape – you’ll perhaps uncover the next legendary name to grace Hong Kong’s tracks.

Caption: Emerging stars like Patch of Stars (錶之星河) and G1 J.J. Atkins Stakes runner-up Hidden Achievement were discovered at the Ready to Run Sale

Stud Farm and Training Centre Visits

Those who join this tour get the rare chance to get acquainted with the full racing ecosystem. The adventure of bloodstock discovery begins through private inspections at some of the best stud farms in the industry – home to sires of homegrown heroes such as Ka Ying Rising (嘉應高昇). Assess the athleticism and potential of these young prospects up close, guided by experienced handlers. You’ll also visit leading training centres to glean insight into how these young horses develop into elite competitors.

Caption: Sample award winning wines and the refined pleasures of New Zealand’s countryside

Beyond the Sale

The tour will also offer an opportunity to step away after the thrill of the sales for a taste of New Zealand’s natural bounties. You’ll take a leisurely tour of some of the region’s finest wineries located amidst Waiheke Island’s rolling vineyards and enjoy world-class dining at some of the best restaurants in the city. Aside from sampling award-winning cuisine in Auckland, make the most of free time to explore the local landmarks. Head up the Sky Tower for its unforgettable panoramic views of the city, soak up local history and culture at Auckland Museum, or stroll around the city centre.

Whatever your racing ambitions are, this tour is sure to enrich your knowledge and allow you to witness – and perhaps write – the next chapter of racing history.

Click here to learn more about the New Zealand Racing Lifestyle tour.